Lawsuits challenge prayer at public meetings

Protesters remain seated during an opening prayer during Hamilton County Commission meeting in Chattanooga, Tenn.Associated Press

It happens every week at meetings in towns, counties and cities nationwide. A lawmaker or religious leader leads a prayer before officials begin the business of zoning changes, contract approvals and trash pickup. At least five lawsuits around the country -- in California, Florida, Missouri, New York, and Tennessee -- are actively challenging pre-meeting prayers.

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